Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) in Canada

A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is one of the most powerful operations to reshape the tummy. A tummy tuck affects all three layers of the abdomen. It tightens the muscle layer reshaping the underlying structure of the abdomen. It then removes fat and also removes all excess skin. This creates a major change in the abdominal wall that cannot be replicated by any other operation.

This surgery is commonly performed on both men and women. Men most commonly choose this operation after having gained excessive midline weight at middle age. Women most commonly have this surgery after having children. Usually childbirth causes muscle stretching and skin stretching casing stretch marks. Added to this, c-section scars occasionally mutilate the lower abdomen making bikini wearing near impossible. The tummy tuck addresses and corrects all these problems in one simple operation. This makes it a very popular operation amongst post partum women. Major weight loss is also a very common indication for this surgery. Most men and women who have lost weight have excessive loose skin on this area that needs removal. This operation can help tighten up the abdominal area and make the results of the weight loss outstanding.

There are three different kinds of tummy tucks available. For minimal looseness and problems in the abdominal area a mini tummy tuck may be all that is needed. This simply involves a low short transverse scar in the underwear line from which the muscle can be tightened and excess skin and fat removed.

For most people a full tummy tuck is required which uses a similar scar but elevates the skin all the way up to the ribs removing all the skin from the belly button to the pubic area and recreating a new belly button. This is the most popular type and has the biggest effect.

The last type of tummy tuck is effective for patients who have high vertical scars and is called a ‘fleur de lise’ tummy tuck. This tummy tuck utilizes the pre-existing scar to pull in the skin from the sides as well. This is very effective for people who have had previous stomach stapling surgeries for weight loss.

The surgery is usually done on an outpatient basis. You will feel discomfort, but any pain can be controlled with medication. You can expect your stomach to be bruised, swollen and ache and this can last for a month. A surgical compression garment must be worn for 6 weeks post surgery to help support the muscle tightening.

The results of a tummy tuck are instantaneous but the final result will not be seen until swelling has reduced.Your surgeon will give you specific recovery instructions but usually you will be asked to rest for the first 2 weeks. You will probably be instructed not to participate in strenuous activities for 3 – 4 weeks.